By Thandiwe Matsenjwa
MBABANE – Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla has thrown a challenge to the Pastor’s Wives Foundation to address the growing concern of teenage pregnancy in the country.
During a certification presentation at her office yesterday (Monday, June 3, 2024), the DPM emphasised that it was the responsibility of the church to care for all individuals, including young people.
The challenge was raised in recognition of the Foundation’s efforts in combating gender-based violence (GBV), which has reached crisis proportions in the country. The DPM commended the foundation for its initiatives and urged churches to create platforms for discussing and addressing issues such as teenage pregnancies, sexual abuse, and substance abuse, including drugs and alcohol.
The Pastors’ Wives Foundation, established by Umkhokheli Mpumie Motsa, aims to empower and build confidence among pastors’ wives and other women. The foundation provides a safe space for discussions and the sharing of experiences. Mpumie expressed that pastors’ wives often lack platforms to share their struggles, leading to the establishment of the foundation.
Recently, cases of GBV within and outside of churches have prompted the organisation to take action. The foundation’s efforts have garnered support from various companies and organisations, as evidenced by their certification presentation.
Honoured partners include Swaziland Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA), Sniper Security, Let’s Ride, Multipurpose Distributors, Msholozi Communications, World Vision Eswatini, Technosol, Bible Society of Eswatini, Ekhaya Insurance, Happy Valley Hotel, UNFPA Eswatini, Inhlonhla, Eswatini Air, and IF’s Lounge Destiny Group.
The DPM applauded these partnerships and acknowledged the church’s significant role in addressing societal issues. “I am happy with this initiative and we call upon churches to create platforms to talk about teenage pregnancies, sexual abuse, drugs and alcohol abuse issues. Let us instil self-worth and self-esteem to our young people. I am happy the church is rising up and sponsors have realised the important role played by the church,” she said.
The DPM’s challenge to the Pastor’s Wives Foundation highlights the urgent need to combat teenage pregnancy. The foundation’s dedication to empowering pastors’ wives and addressing GBV is commendable. As the church rises up to confront these challenges, the support of sponsors and the recognition of their crucial role are crucial steps towards achieving positive change in society.
